When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common upvc window repair breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and repaired shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double glazed window repairs near me pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to place the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.